This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

A report highlighting positive signs for Scotland’s economy has been welcomed by Scottish Secretary Alistair Carmichael.

Commenting on the latest publication of the Bank of Scotland’s PMI report, Mr Carmichael said:

Today’s PMI report shows that being part of the UK with its larger market, stronger and growing economy and stable currency is creating more jobs and better opportunities for Scotland.

As we move into the second half of 2014, this report shows that Scottish employment has grown for the 20th straight month. This builds on the encouraging economic signs so far this year, such as reaching a record high in employment, more Scottish women in work than ever before and the UK’s economy being predicted to grow faster than any other G7 economy.

It is also very encouraging to see a rise in the number of new Scottish businesses. Backing small businesses is a vital part of the government’s long term economic plan. Since 2010, 3,300 entrepreneurial Scots have moved from Jobseekers Allowance to becoming their own boss and since its introduction in April this year, 57,000 Scottish businesses have already taken advantage of our employment allowance.